Global markets plunged as fresh tariff threats by US President Donald Trump sparked widespread uncertainty. Indian equities mirrored the sell-off, with Sensex and Nifty posting sharp losses, while a weakening rupee and foreign investor selling deepened market pressure.
Indian Markets Sink Under Global and Currency Pressure
New Delhi: India's benchmark indices shed nearly 1,065.71 points as the BSE Sensex closed at 82,180.47, while the Nifty 50 slid 353 points (−1.38%) to end at 25,232.50, amid growing global tensions and uncertainty over a potential US–India trade deal. Weak global cues, a sharp fall in the rupee, and sustained foreign fund outflows weighed heavily on investor sentiment throughout the session.
Nearly ₹10 lakh crore in investor wealth was wiped out today as the BSE Sensex tumbled over 1,065 points to close at 82,180.47, amid rising global tensions and uncertainty surrounding the US–India trade deal.
Rupee Slips Past 91/$ amidst uncertainty over US-India trade deal, heavy FPIs selling
The domestic markets had opened on a cautious note. The Sensex opened at 83,207.38, while the Nifty 50 started at 25,580.30. Although the pre-opening session showed brief strength, the optimism proved short-lived as selling pressure intensified soon after regular trading began.
The sell-off in Indian equities mirrored weakness across global markets. European stocks declined sharply after US President Donald Trump threatened fresh tariffs on imports from several European countries amid tensions over Greenland. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index fell nearly 1%, marking one of its worst performances in recent months.
US stock futures also signaled heavy losses, with Dow futures falling over 700 points, while S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures slipped sharply as investors prepared for heightened volatility when Wall Street reopened.
Adding to domestic concerns, the Indian rupee weakened sharply and breached the key 91-per-dollar level for the first time in 2026. The currency touched an intraday low of ₹91.01 per US dollar, pressured by a strong dollar, persistent foreign portfolio investor (FPI) selling, and uncertainty surrounding trade negotiations between India and the United States.
Rupee Slips Past 91/$ for the second time in two months
The rupee’s slide raised fears of higher imported inflation and accelerated capital outflows, further dampening equity market sentiment.
Foreign investors remained net sellers in Indian equities, tracking global risk aversion. Market participants turned cautious as escalating trade tensions threatened global growth and raised concerns about supply-chain disruptions and retaliatory measures.
As equities fell worldwide, investors sought refuge in safe-haven assets. Gold prices surged, while silver recorded sharp gains, highlighting the extent of risk aversion gripping global financial markets.
Stock Market Today: Sensex, Nifty open marginally lower amid mixed global cues
Analysts warn that markets could remain volatile in the near term as trade tensions escalate and geopolitical uncertainty persists. With global investors closely monitoring tariff developments, currency movements, and central bank signals, Indian equities may continue to face pressure until clarity emerges on global trade and economic stability.
